2009 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,697 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 262 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Audi A4 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2697 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
